Nationwide Emergency Alert System Test

A nationwide emergency alert system (EAS) test will include all broadcast TV stations, radio stations and video providers and will last up to 60 seconds.

During the test, listeners will hear a message that states: “This is a test.”

The audio message will be the same for everyone.  However, due to limitations in the EAS, the video test message on cable TV systems will not indicate that it is a test.

The text at the top of the television screen may indicate that an “Emergency Action Notification has been issued.” Charter wants to ensure that all customers, specifically those that are elderly and hearing impaired, are aware this is only a test and there is no need to become alarmed.

Although the EAS has been in existence for over 15 years, there has never been an end-to-end, nationwide test of the system. The nationwide test is being conducted to verify the reliability of the EAS system and its effectiveness in alerting the public on a national scale.

For more information, see www.fcc.gov/pshs.